After a four-year hiatus, a long-running charity bowls event commemorating the life of a much-loved Proserpine local returned to raise $1990 for the Leukaemia Foundation.
Sixty-four bowlers were out in force at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club on Saturday morning for the Richard ‘Dick’ Todd Memorial Bowls.
The annual event – which took a break during the Covid pandemic – has raised funds for charities across the Whitsundays since its inception in 2011.
Named for local Dick Todd, the event commemorates the Proserpinian’s life – which was tragically cut short after a lung cancer diagnosis.
Started by his brother Ken Todd, the event is an encapsulation of Dick’s enjoyment of both the sport of bowling and his ability to bring the community together – while having a bit of a drink and a laugh.
Ken Todd said the event has previously raised funds for the Proserpine hospital, as well as money for a young, local girl who was fighting cancer.
“We always know where it’s going, and it’s always for a good cause. This year, we’ve put it to Leukaemia Foundation because we had someone from our group whose wife passed away from it this year,” Mr Todd said.
“The idea is, come in as colourful clothes as you can. Dicky would have loved it.”
His daughter, Debbie Todd, said the same: “He was a big bowler and he loved to be happy, to sing and dance. Especially with the drinking on the side!”
“It’s a good way to remember and celebrate his life, as well as raise money for causes.”
The event had multiple sponsors contributing to its raffle and auction, which were the main fundraising portions of the day.
Dick Todd’s family (pictured here) have been running a charity bowls event in his honour for almost ten years
Sixty-four bowlers were out in force on the day, enjoying the sun, fun, and drinks, as well as raising funds for Leukaemia Foundation
